Art Therapy vs. Making Art: Understanding the Differences and Benefits
Art has long been a source of joy, relaxation, and self-expression. However, there is a distinction between simply making art and engaging in art therapy. While both activities can be immensely rewarding, they offer different experiences and benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between art therapy and making art, the unique benefits of each, and how art therapy with a trained therapist can provide deeper therapeutic outcomes.
The Joy and Benefits of Making Art
Making art, whether it's drawing, painting, sculpting, or any other form of creative expression, offers numerous benefits that contribute to our overall well-being. Here are some key advantages:
Stress Relief: Engaging in artistic activities can be a powerful way to reduce stress. The process of creating art allows for relaxation and a break from the pressures of daily life, promoting a state of flow similar to meditation.
Self-Expression: Art provides a medium for expressing thoughts and emotions that might be difficult to articulate with words. This can be particularly valuable during times of intense emotion or when dealing with complex feelings. During these moments, it can be beneficial to simply use a color or colors that resonate with our emotions, scribble on a sheet of paper or give shape to an image that's been on our mind.
Enhanced Creativity: Regularly making art stimulates the brain and fosters creativity. It encourages a different way of thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to see the world from different perspectives. Art also often evokes strong emotions and create an emotional engagement, which can fuel the creative process.
Mindfulness: Creating art sometimes requires focus and attention to detail (eg. colouring, drawing a mandala, beading), which can enhance mindfulness. Being present in the moment while working on an art project can therefore improve mental clarity and emotional regulation.
Increase Self-Esteem: Completing an art project can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem. Seeing a tangible result of your creativity can be highly rewarding and affirming.
The Unique Role of Art Therapy
Although an art therapy session involves making art (providing the benefits mentioned above), art therapy, on the other hand, involves the guidance and support of a trained art therapist. This professional setting adds a layer of therapeutic intent and structure to the creative process. Here’s how art therapy differs from simply making art:
Therapeutic Goals: In art therapy, the creative process is guided by specific therapeutic goals. Whether it’s addressing trauma, managing anxiety, or improving mental health, the art therapist works with the individual to achieve these objectives through art.
Trained Guidance: An art therapist is trained to understand the psychological aspects of art and creativity. They can (when appropriate) suggest interpretations regarding the symbolism in a client’s artwork, provide insights, and guide the client through emotional exploration and healing.
Safe Space for Expression: Art therapy provides a safe and confidential environment where individuals can freely express themselves without judgment. This can be especially important for those dealing with sensitive or traumatic issues.
Structured Sessions: Art therapy sessions are structured to include both the creation of art and reflective discussions. The therapist helps the client process their emotions and thoughts related to their artwork, leading to deeper self-awareness and therapeutic outcomes.
Personalized Approach: Art therapists tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of each client. They consider the individual’s personal history, current challenges, and therapeutic goals to create a personalized treatment plan.
Process versus aesthetic value: In art therapy, the emphasis is on the creative process and the personal experience of making art, rather than the final product or its aesthetic value. This approach allows individuals to explore and express their emotions freely and to keep our inner critic (with the need to perform) at a safe distance.
Therapeutic alliance: Like any other therapeutic approach, the creation of a therapeutic alliance between the art therapist and his or her client is crucial as it fosters a safe, trusting environment, allowing clients to express and explore their emotions creatively, facilitating deeper self-awareness and healing. This bond enhances the effectiveness of the therapeutic process, promoting resilience and psychological well-being and provides external insight, validation, and support that one cannot achieve through solitary art-making.
The Benefits of Art Therapy
While making art on your own offers significant benefits, art therapy with a professional can provide additional therapeutic advantages. Here is how:
Emotional Healing: Art therapy can be particularly effective for individuals who have experienced trauma, loss, or significant emotional distress. The creative process helps to access and process deep-seated emotions in a non-verbal way.
Mental Health Improvement: Art therapy can aid in managing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more. The combination of creative expression and therapeutic support can lead to substantial improvements in mental health.
Cognitive Development: For children and adolescents, art therapy can support cognitive and emotional development. It can help with issues such as behavioral problems, learning disabilities, and social skills.
Self-Discovery: Art therapy facilitates a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The reflective aspect of the therapy helps individuals gain new insights into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Coping Skills: Art therapy provides individuals with healthy coping mechanisms. The skills learned during therapy can be applied to manage stress, overcome challenges, and maintain emotional balance in daily life.
Both making art and engaging in art therapy offer valuable benefits, but they serve different purposes. Making art on your own can be a wonderful way to relax, express yourself, and boost your creativity. On the other hand, art therapy with a trained art therapist provides a structured, supportive environment designed to achieve specific therapeutic goals and promote deeper emotional healing.
Understanding the differences between these two approaches can help you choose the right path for your needs. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a creative hobby or seeking professional support for mental health, the world of art offers a multitude of ways to enrich your life and enhance your well-being.
You are curious about art therapy and would like to start a follow-up? Complete our Book a consultation to schedule a free consultation with one of our art therapists.
